The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service announced on May 31 that it is starting to collect data from approximately 100,000 farmers and ranchers for its annual Agricultural Resource Management Survey (ARMS).
In 2016, the survey will contain information that hones in on corn production, as well as both organic and conventional milk production in the U.S.
The survey typically provides an overview of U.S. agricultural production as a whole. Some of the findings included in the research pertain to farm financial well-being, chemical usage, and other farm characteristics. However, this is the first time the survey has focused on corn and dairy since 2010.
“The 2014 Farm Bill introduced important changes in agricultural policy, by expanding the range of crop insurance options while eliminating several commodity support programs,” said Barbara Rater, director of NASS Census and Survey Division. “Data from the 2016 ARMS will be used to assess the crop insurance choices made by farmers, helping policymakers better understand the impact of crop insurance offerings on farm production decisions and financial outcomes.”
The survey is conducted in three phases, and it will continue through April 2017. Rater is encouraging every producer contacted by ARMS to participate in the research.
“To make responding as convenient as possible, the survey can be completed online at http://agcounts.usda.gov and NASS representatives are available by phone,” Rater states. “Producers can also complete and mail the paper form.”